Composite Metal Deck Stiffening Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional composite metal-concrete deck floor systems face limitations in load carrying capacity and risk of failure under horizontal loads due to the tradeoff between metal thickness and tensile strength, particularly during progressive collapse or extreme loading events.
Innovation Solution
A composite metal-concrete floor system comprising a multi-piece assembly of light gauge metal deck pans connected by heavier gauge metal stiffening connectors, which enhances load carrying capacity and prevents deck spreading by distributing strength effectively across the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If heavier gauge metal is used in the horizontal portion of the metal deck, then load carrying capacity is improved, but material cost and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different metal gauges to different portions of the deck - heavier gauge metal is used in the upstanding structural portions that require compression strength, while lighter gauge metal is used in the horizontal bottom portion where tension forces are applied. This local differentiation of material properties optimizes both strength and material efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite metal deck structure that combines multiple metal gauges and materials (metal deck with concrete slab) to achieve superior load carrying capability. The composite action between the metal deck and concrete slab allows the structure to utilize the tensile strength of steel and compressive strength of concrete effectively.
2Quantity of substance
If lighter gauge metal is used in the horizontal portion of the metal deck, then material cost is reduced, but load carrying capacity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different metal gauges to different portions of the deck - heavier gauge metal is used in the upstanding structural portions that require compression strength, while lighter gauge metal is used in the horizontal bottom portion where tension forces are applied. This local differentiation of material properties optimizes both strength and material efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a composite metal deck structure that combines multiple metal gauges and materials (metal deck with concrete slab) to achieve superior load carrying capability. The composite action between the metal deck and concrete slab allows the structure to utilize the tensile strength of steel and compressive strength of concrete effectively.
3Ease of manufacture
If uniform thickness metal is used throughout the deck, then manufacturing is simplified, but structural efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different metal gauges to different portions of the deck - heavier gauge metal is used in the upstanding structural portions that require compression strength, while lighter gauge metal is used in the horizontal bottom portion where tension forces are applied. This local differentiation of material properties optimizes both strength and material efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A deck pan assembly for receiving and supporting concrete that is utilized as a floor system in a building. The deck pan assembly comprises a plurality of deck pans with each deck pan including a bottom and an upturned edge. The deck pans are disposed in side-by-side relationship and spaced such that the turned up edges of two deck pans lie adjacent each other and form a connecting structure that permits the two deck pans to be connected together. Further the assembly includes an elongated stiffening connector extending along the connecting structure and at least partially covering the turned up edges that form the connecting structure. The elongated stiffening connector includes a pair of spaced apart sides, and the connecting structure, formed by the upturned edges of two deck pans, is inserted between the spaced apart sides such that the spaced apart sides extend downwardly adjacent outer surfaces of the connecting structure. Fasteners are employed to connect the stiffening connector to the connecting structure of the deck pan. The elongated stiffening connector and the deck pans are constructed of sheet metal and wherein the sheet metal that forms the elongated stiffening connector is of a heavier gauge metal than the sheet metal that forms the deck pans.